Grace Court care home, part of the Sanders Senior Living Group, marked its first anniversary with a special celebration, bringing together residents, team members and guests to reflect on a special first year at the luxury care home in Canvey Island.
The community gathered to celebrate one year since Grace Court officially opened its doors. The occasion was an opportunity to look back on the memories made over the past twelve months, recognise the people who have helped shape the home’s journey and celebrate the community that has grown around it.
The celebration was filled with music, entertainment and delicious food, with a violinist, singer and dancing creating a lively atmosphere. The home’s kitchen team prepared a special buffet and birthday cake, bringing everyone together to mark the milestone in style.
Speeches were delivered by Lucie, Grace Court’s new Home Manager, Carmen, one of the home’s first residents, and Ray Howard MBE, who officially opened the home a year ago.
Lucie welcomed residents and guests, reflecting on the importance of the home’s first year and the relationships built between residents, families and team members. As the new Home Manager, she also looked ahead to the future, with a continued commitment to ensuring Grace Court remains a place where residents feel valued, supported and truly at home.
Among those celebrating was Carmen, who has been a resident since Grace Court first opened its doors. Reflecting on the milestone, she said: “I have lived here since day one and was here for the opening ceremony.” She expressed her excitement to be part of the “fabulous party”.
Her words highlighted the personal significance of the anniversary and the memories created by those who have been part of Grace Court’s story from the very beginning.
The occasion was particularly meaningful for Ray Howard MBE, who officially opened Grace Court twelve months ago. Since then, Ray has experienced the home from a different perspective, having stayed there for respite care following an operation.
Speaking at the celebration, Ray praised the care he had received, saying: “I do tell everyone I could not have been treated better anywhere in the world.”
He also expressed his gratitude to Gordon and the company for their investment in the home, saying: “Thank you for this huge investment that you and your company invested in our homeland.”
Ray’s experience offered a heartfelt reflection on the importance of Grace Court to the local community, highlighting both the investment in the home and the care and support provided to those who stay there.
Situated on Canvey Island, Grace Court offers residential, dementia and respite care in a thoughtfully designed setting. As Grace Court celebrates its first birthday, the anniversary marks an important milestone for the home and its growing community. The celebration provided a lovely opportunity to reflect on the past year, reconnect with the local community and look forward to creating many more special moments together.


